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THE GAMBIA LAUNCHES $52.6M INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT TO BOOST ECONOMIC GROWTH

The Government of The Gambia and the World Bank have officially launched the Gambia Infrastructure Project, a 52.6 million US dollar flagship initiative aimed at strengthening climate-resilient infrastructure, improving service delivery, and enhancing institutional capacity across key sectors to support sustainable socio-economic development.The six-year project, which is expected to run until June 2031, focuses on upgrading road corridors, boosting electricity transmission and distribution reliability, and digital public service systems, offering solutions to strengthen institutional capacity for infrastructure planning, among others.Speaking at the launch, Baboucarr Boye, the Gambia's Minister for Public Service, said the project is firmly aligned with the Recovery Focused National Development Plan and reflects the government's unwavering commitment to inclusive growth, climate resilience, and effective service delivery."The project comes at a critical juncture in our development journey. As our economy continues to expand, driven by construction, agricultural, services, and infrastructure investment, the demand for reliable transport networks and stable energy systems has never been greater," Boye said.Nani Juwara, The Gambia's Petroleum, Energy and Mines Minister, highlighted the expected impact of the project on the country's energy sector, saying the project will make significant contributions in addressing persistent challenges in electricity transmission and distribution while expanding access to reliable power, particularly for communities, at the last mile connection.The project will support the extension and densification of the electricity network in 80 rural communities, involving the construction of approximately 142 km of medium voltage lines, 350 km of low voltage lines, and 92 medium voltage to low voltage substations alongside the provision of prepaid meters for beneficiary communities.Franklin Mutahakana, the World Bank's Resident Representative in the Gambia, urged the implementing team to engage beneficiaries and obtain feedback, especially from the vulnerable, as he affirmed the World Bank's commitment to the implementation."Allow me to reiterate the World Bank Group's commitment to supporting and guiding the implementation of this project. Successful implementation is our shared joy. We also have to remember that a failed implementation will be our shared failure, and none of us likes failure. So let's strive to work together and generate the success that we've been looking for. It's the Bank's desire to register positive and effective implementation" Franklin said.In his launching statement, Ebrima Sillah, the Minister for Transport, Works and Infrastructure, said the pillars of the project, which include the upgrading of critical roads, the expansion of access to electricity, and the strengthening of key institutions, “form the backbone of any serious national development agenda.”Sillah also said he can “confidently confirm” that those investments are “fully aligned with the National Development Plan and enjoy the government's full backing with the highest level of support from His Excellency the President of the Republic Adama Barrow.""We owe it to the Gambian people to manage these resources prudently, to uphold transparency and accountability, and to deliver maximal value for every dalasi invested,” he stated.The Gambia has witnessed a massive transformation in the expansion of road networks and electricity, and stakeholders are hopeful that this project will help to further ameliorate remaining challenges in critical areas.

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ECOWAS COMMISSION CHAIR RECEIVES HIGH-LEVEL DELEGATIONS

The Chairman of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. Dr Omar Alieu Touray, received several high-level diplomatic delegations on Tuesday, 16 December 2025, at his office in Abuja, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation and foster better relations with member states and partners in the Community.During these meetings, President Touray officially received the letters of credence from Ambassador Olawale Emmanuel Awe as the new Permanent Representative of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to ECOWAS. The President also granted an audience to H.E. Mohamed Alkhairy Algedail Arbab, Acting Commissioner of Affairs of the Republic of Sudan, as well as H.E. Ambassador Musa Sani Nuhu, Former Permanent Representative of Nigeria to ECOWAS, who is completing his tenure with the Community.In recognition of his valuable contributions to the work of ECOWAS and his promotion of regional integration, Ambassador Musa Sani Nuhu was presented with a distinction by the Chairman of the Commission, emphasising the Community's gratitude for his dedication.Dr Omar Alieu Touray (right) presents an award to Ambassador Musa Sani Nuhu. Musa is currently Nigeria’s appointed representative to ECOWAS Commission, his role is to facilitate collaboration between the ECOWAS Commission and Government Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), as well as private organisations in Nigeria. The meetings reflect ECOWAS' commitment to strengthening cooperation and collaboration with its member states and partners, with a view to promoting regional integration and development. The Commission looks forward to continuing its work with Ambassador Awe and other partners to advance the objectives of the Community.The visit by the high-level delegations is part of the ongoing efforts by ECOWAS to strengthen its relationships with member states and partners, and to promote regional cooperation and development.

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  • ECOWAS
  • December 17, 2025 08:53
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ECOWAS LEADERS UNITE AGAINST INSECURITY AND COUPS IN WEST AFRICA

West African leaders gathered at the 68th ordinary session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government summit in Abuja, Nigeria, have pledged to tackle the growing challenges of insecurity, military coups, and economic instability in the sub-region. The summit, attended by President Adama Barrow of The Gambia, focused on finding solutions to the complex security situation in West Africa.The leaders condemned the recent military coup in Guinea-Bissau and the attempted coup in Benin, vowing to take action against unconstitutional changes in government. The Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority, President Julius Mada Bio of Sierra Leone, emphasised the need for urgent action to address the acute and complex challenges facing the region."We are facing serious threats to democracy, peace, and stability in our region," President Bio said. "We must renew ECOWAS' vision with courage, determination, and unity to foster integration amongst our 400 million population."The summit also saw the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Alieu Omar Touray, commend leaders for their swift response to the attempted coup in Benin. Dr Touray announced plans to integrate the private sector through the establishment of the ECOWAS Business Council, chaired by Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote, to promote investment and development in West Africa.The Vice President of Nigeria, H.E. Kassim Shettima Mustafa, renewed Nigeria's commitment to regional security, peace, and stability, warning against external threats posed by violent extremist groups and urging closer collaboration to respond to these challenges.The summit concluded with a joint declaration rejecting the coup in Guinea-Bissau and calling for a return to democratic civilian rule. ECOWAS leaders also passed on the leadership of the ECOWAS Commission to Senegal for the next four years after the conclusion of the current President's term.

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ECOWAS LEADERS REAFFIRM COMMITMENT TO DEMOCRACY AND REGIONAL STABILITY

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reiterated its unwavering dedication to upholding democracy, constitutional order, and regional stability in West Africa. This commitment was emphasised at the 68th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, held at the State House in Abuja.At a press conference held to mark the conclusion of the summit, Dr Omar Alieu Touray, Chairman of the ECOWAS Commission, outlined the key outcomes of the meeting. The leaders of the 15-member bloc reaffirmed their zero-tolerance stance on unconstitutional changes in government, condemning any attempts to seize power through force.The Gambian leader (left in a pink kaftan) was among the leaders who attended the 68th Ordinary Session in Nigeria. The summit also saw ECOWAS leaders congratulate member states on the successful conduct of recent elections and commend those preparing for polls next year. However, concerns were raised over the situation in The Gambia, particularly regarding statements made by the country's former president in exile. The Authority warned that such actions could undermine national peace and cohesion, emphasising that no one is above accountability for alleged human rights violations.In a separate development, the Authority condemned the attempted coup in Benin and commended the country's security forces for their swift response, supported by ECOWAS regional mechanisms. The leaders tasked the Commission with proposing measures to further strengthen the ECOWAS Reserve Force.The summit demonstrated ECOWAS's commitment to promoting democracy, peace, and stability in the region. As the bloc continues to navigate the complex security landscape, its leaders remain resolute in their determination to uphold the principles of constitutional order and the rule of law.

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PRESIDENT BARROW ARRIVES IN ABUJA FOR CRUCIAL ECOWAS SUMMIT AMID REGIONAL SECURITY CONCERNS 

President Adama Barrow has arrived in Abuja, Nigeria, to attend the 68th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government Summit. The summit will focus on pressing regional issues, particularly the recent military coup in Guinea-Bissau and the attempted coup in Benin.Upon his arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, President Barrow was greeted by Gambian High Commissioner Mohamadou Musa Njie, Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment Dr. Salihu Aminu Usman, and other officials. A ceremonial guard mounted by Nigerian Armed Forces personnel paid tribute to the President, who also inspected the guard of honour outside the Presidential VIP lounge.Nigerian Armed Forces personnel paid tribute to President Barrow upon arrival .Members of the Gambian community in Nigeria were on hand to welcome The Gambian Leader, who will join other West African leaders on Sunday for the summit at the State House in Abuja. The meeting aims to address the regional security challenges posed by the coup in Guinea-Bissau and discuss strategies for maintaining stability and democracy in West Africa.Recent events in Guinea-Bissau have sparked concerns, with ECOWAS suspending the country's coup-installed government from decision-making activities within the regional body until constitutional order is restored. The situation in Benin, where loyalist soldiers foiled an attempted coup, will also be high on the agenda.Nigerian Armed Forces ceremonial guard personnel who mounted a guard of honour for the Gambian leader.This summit presents an opportunity for regional leaders to strengthen cooperation and find solutions to the growing security challenges in West Africa.

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GAMBIA TAKES STEP TOWARDS COOPERATIVE SECTOR REVIVAL WITH VALIDATION WORKSHOP FOR NEW ACT

The Department of Cooperative Development (DoCD) under the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Food Security, in collaboration with NACCUG and its Cooperative Credit Union, has taken a significant step towards strengthening the cooperative movement in The Gambia. A validation workshop for the Cooperative Societies Act was recently held, bringing together officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, representatives from NGOs, private sector stakeholders, and directors from various cooperative unions.The Cooperative Societies Act aims to establish a framework that enables cooperatives to operate efficiently, safeguard the interests of members, and foster transparency. The validation workshop is a crucial step in the development of the Act, ensuring that all concerns are addressed and the document is refined into a responsive national instrument.Officials emphasised that the validation forum marks a pivotal moment in the revival of the cooperative movement in The Gambia, signalling a new era of good governance and accountability. The event brought together key stakeholders to refine the draft document and ensure its effective implementation.Members urged participants to take ownership of the Act and contribute to its refinement, emphasising that Gambians must assume responsibility for its implementation. The validation workshop is a significant step towards promoting a robust and sustainable cooperative sector in The Gambia.

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WEST AFRICAN PARLIAMENTARIANS UNITE TO PROTECT REGION'S COASTAL FUTURE: CALL FOR STRONGER LAWS AND REGIONAL COOPERATION

Parliamentarians from across West Africa gathered in Banjul for a pivotal meeting to address the pressing challenges facing the region's marine and coastal ecosystems. The three-day Extraordinary General Assembly of the Alliance for Parliamentarians and Local Elected Representatives for the Protection of the Environment of West African Littoral Countries (APPEL) brought together leaders to discuss critical issues, including coastal erosion, illegal fishing, pollution, and climate change.The Assembly issued a strong call to action, emphasising the need for stronger environmental laws, cross-border cooperation, and urgent measures to safeguard the region's fragile marine ecosystems. Honourable Seedy SK Njie, The Gambia's Deputy Speaker, stressed the importance of legislative harmonisation and regional solidarity in addressing these challenges.West Africa's environmental challenges extend beyond national borders, making regional cooperation essential. Lawmakers emphasised that regional cooperation is no longer optional, but urgent, to protect the region's coastal future. PRCM Chair Hon. Saikou Bah highlighted the importance of the high seas to national waters and economies, urging lawmakers to champion the ratification and implementation of the BBNJ Treaty.The ratification and implementation of the BBNJ Treaty would be a direct investment in the country's national security, blue economy, and environmental resilience. The Gambia's Deputy Speaker noted that his country has taken steps to strengthen environmental oversight, including reinforcing the plastic bag ban and reviewing the National Environment Management Act.The Assembly marks a turning point for APPEL, as West African parliamentarians come together to address the region's environmental challenges. The meeting demonstrates the commitment of lawmakers to protect the region's coastal future and promote sustainable development.

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OFFICE OF NATIONAL SECURITY CONTINUES NATIONWIDE SENSITISATION ON NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL ACT 2025

The Office of the National Security (ONS), in partnership with the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF), has launched a regional sensitisation programme on the National Security Council Act 2025 in the Central River Region (CRR). This initiative aims to deepen public understanding of the legislation, which seeks to create a formal and coherent framework for coordinating national security activities across the country.The National Security Council Act 2025 is designed to enhance efficiency, strengthen strategic oversight, and address emerging and traditional security challenges. The Act establishes a structured National Security Council and related mechanisms to promote inter-agency coordination, civilian oversight, and a more professional security sector.This sensitation targets over 300 participants, including Regional Governors, security agencies, Chiefs, Alkalos, civil society, youth and women’s groups, are expected to take part.Foday Fofana, Project Officer at DCAF-Banjul, emphasised the importance of engagement in promoting clarity, enhancing collaboration, and generating valuable feedback to strengthen national security coordination mechanisms. The sensitisation exercise is part of ongoing efforts to popularise the legislation among the public and security institutions nationwide.Governor Ousman Bah of the Central River Region commended the Government of The Gambia for prioritising security sector reforms and taking deliberate steps to popularise the legislation. Lamin Jatta, Director of Joint Assessment at the Office of the National Security, noted that the Act is designed to align national security with development aspirations, ensuring security strategies remain comprehensive, people-centred, and supportive of the country's wider development agenda.The nationwide sensitisation reinforces democratic norms by embedding respect for human rights, accountability, and the rule of law within the country's security sector. This initiative demonstrates The Gambia's commitment to promoting security sector governance and advancing national development priorities.This sensitation targets over 300 participants, including Regional Governors, security agencies, Chiefs, Alkalos, civil society, youth and women’s groups, are expected to take part.

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WESTMINSTER FOUNDATION FOR DEMOCRACY LAUNCHES COST OF POLITICS RESEARCH

The Westminster Foundation for Democracy has launched a research report on the cost of politics in The Gambia, highlighting the challenges faced by women and the need for greater accountability in campaign financing. The launch event, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, brought together politicians and civil society members to discuss the findings and implications of the research.The research, conducted ahead of the 2026 presidential election, reveals that the financial burden and societal issues are significant barriers to women's participation in politics. The study also raises concerns about the source of campaign financing for political actors, citing the risk of state capture due to private sponsorship.Tabu Njie Sarr, Country Director for the Westminster Foundation for Democracy, emphasised the importance of exploring the cost of politics and promoting women's participation in decision-making processes. Babucarr Nyang, a member of the research team, presented the findings, highlighting the need for greater transparency and accountability in campaign financing.The report's launch was officiated by Hon. Kebba Tumani Sanneh, National Assembly Member for Foni Jarrol and member of the Gender Committee of the National Assembly. A panel discussion featuring veteran politicians, including Halifa Sallah and Fatoumata Jallow-Tambaajang, provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for women's participation in politics.The research outcome is now publicly available, providing a critical resource for stakeholders to promote transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in The Gambia's political processes.

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OUATTARA SWORN IN FOR FOURTH TERM AS IVORY COAST PRESIDENT

President Alassane Ouattara has taken the oath of office for a fourth five-year term as President of Côte d'Ivoire, following a landslide victory in October's presidential election where he secured nearly 90% of the vote. The inauguration ceremony, held at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan, was attended by 11 African leaders, including President Adama Barrow of The Gambia, and delegations from 50 countries.With his left hand on the Constitution and his right hand raised, the 83-year-old President Ouattara vowed to uphold the constitution, maintain national unity, and protect the rights and liberties of citizens. He was decorated with the country's highest honour, the National Order, by Grand Chancellor Ally Coulibaly.The inauguration ceremony, held at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan, was attended by 11 African leaders, including President Adama Barrow of The Gambia.In his inaugural address, President Ouattara expressed gratitude to the Ivorian people for electing him for another term and pledged to continue his program of national consolidation and development, prioritising women and youth. He emphasised his government's commitment to economic transformation, agricultural modernisation, and building a united and prosperous nation.The swearing-in ceremony is seen as a consolidation of democracy in Côte d'Ivoire, a country regarded as a beacon of peace and stability in West Africa. The presence of ECOWAS leaders at the ceremony underscores the sub-regional body's commitment to defending and strengthening democracy in the region.

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WORLD BANK EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LAUDS GAMBIA'S PROGRESS, ANNOUNCES KEY INVESTMENTS

The Vice President of The Gambia, His Excellency Mohammed B.S Jallow, has received the Executive Director of the World Bank Group, Dr. ZarauDrbwe, for a crucial meeting to discuss the country's development progress and future collaborations. The meeting, attended by key officials from the Ministry of Finance and the World Bank, highlighted the strong partnership between The Gambia and the World Bank Group.The Gambia is set to host the next major African Caucus Meeting for the IMF/World Bank in 2026, following its assumption of the Chairmanship in late 2025. The meeting will focus on themes such as infrastructure, human capital, and green assets for sustainable growth, building on discussions from the 2025 Bangui meeting.Dr Zarau Kibwe, accompanied by the Hon. Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Seedy Keita, Permanent Secretary Mod A.K. Secka, the Country Director of the World Bank, Franklin Mutahakana, and Senior officials from both the Ministry of finance and the World Bank Group.The World Bank Country Director, Franklin Mutahakana, emphasised the importance of the 2026 Caucus meeting in advancing strategies for the continent's economic future. Dr. ZarauDrbwe expressed satisfaction with the progress of project implementation across The Gambia, citing the USET Complex in Brikama as a model for educational reform in Africa.The Gambia's Chairmanship of the African Caucus is expected to present a unified African voice on global financial reforms, advocate for increased funding, and foster sustainable development. The World Bank's top executives' visit reinforces the strong partnership between The Gambia and the World Bank Group, with discussions focusing on emerging opportunities and avenues for deeper collaboration.

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PRESIDENT BARROW ATTENDS INAUGURATION OF PRESIDENT ALASSANE OUATTARA IN ABIDJAN

His Excellency President Adama Barrow joined regional leaders in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire on Monday to witness the inauguration of President Alassane Ouattara for a fourth term.President Ouattara pledged to uphold the nation's constitution, emphasising democracy, stability, and peace. He outlined plans for modernisation, institutional development, and the empowerment of women and youth, highlighting skills acquisition and domestically driven economic growth.President Barrow's attendance reinforces The Gambia's commitment to regional cooperation and African economic integration.Regional leaders present included Presidents John Dramani Mahama (Ghana), Bassirou Diomaye Faye (Senegal), Julius Maada Bio (Sierra Leone), Brice Nguéma (Gabon), Mohamed Ould Ghazouani (Mauritania), and João Lourenço (Angola).

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DR. FATOU BENSOUDA NAMED GNOC GOODWILL SPORTS AMBASSADOR

The Gambia National Olympic Committee has appointed Her Excellency Dr Fatou Bom Bensouda, High Commissioner of The Gambia to the United Kingdom, as its Goodwill Sports Ambassador.The appointment was announced during the Gambia Day Celebration in Glasgow, Scotland, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to Gambian sport, international diplomacy, and the promotion of Olympic values.A former national volleyball player and ex-Female Vice President of the GNOC, Dr Bensouda was praised for her leadership in promoting women in sport and advancing athlete welfare, integrity, and sports development.In her new role, she will help raise The Gambia's profile on the international sporting stage, strengthen partnerships with global sports organisations, and promote sports diplomacy to support national development.The GNOC states that the appointment reflects Dr Bensouda’s distinguished service to sport and her ongoing commitment to inspiring future generations of Gambian athletes and sports leaders.  

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TEAM GAMBIA RECEIVES WARM WELCOME FROM DIASPORA AHEAD OF COMMONWEALTH GAMES

Team Gambia has received a warm welcome from the Gambian community in Scotland ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.The Gambian Association in Scotland, in collaboration with the Gambia High Commission in the UK and the Commonwealth Sports Association, hosted a special reception dubbed “Gambia Day” in Glasgow. The event brought together athletes, officials, members of the diaspora, government representatives, and sports administrators in a celebration of national unity and support for Team Gambia.It was the first time a Gambian sports delegation competing at an international event formally met members of the diaspora. The gathering provided athletes, coaches, and officials the opportunity to interact directly with Gambians living in Scotland, share experiences, and strengthen the bond between the national team and the diaspora.Attending the event were Minister of Youth and Sports Bakary Y. Badjie; The Gambia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Dr Fatou Bensouda; Chief of Mission Bakary Jammeh; and senior officials of the Gambia National Olympic Committee.Chief of Mission Bakary Jammeh, who chaired the ceremony, expressed appreciation to the Gambian community in Scotland for their hospitality.He described the occasion as a reflection of the power of sport to unite people. “Sports transcends boundaries and brings communities together through a shared passion and common purpose,” he said.Minister Bakary Y. Badjie commended the Gambian Association in Scotland for the historic initiative. He reminded the athletes that they carry the hopes and aspirations of the nation. “Build on previous Commonwealth Games successes and strive for greater achievements,” he challenged the team.High Commissioner Dr Fatou Bensouda described Gambia Day as a celebration of national identity, unity, and excellence. “Sport continues to serve as a powerful tool for bringing Gambians together, both at home and abroad,” she said. Dr Bensouda encouraged the diaspora to keep supporting young people through sport, calling it “a pathway to leadership, education, and national development.”GNOC President Bai Dodou Jallow thanked the community for its support, saying such engagement inspires athletes and reminds them they represent a nation united behind them. He called on Gambian parents and communities abroad to continue encouraging youth participation in sports, describing investment in youth as an investment in the country’s future.President of the Gambian Association in Glasgow, Lamin Sanneh, assured Team Gambia of the diaspora’s continued support throughout the Games and urged athletes to compete with confidence and pride.

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TEAM GAMBIA’S SWIMMING CAMPAIGN BEGINS AT 2026 COMMONWEALTH GAMES

Team Gambia’s swimming campaign got underway at the 2026 Commonwealth Games on Saturday, with Ousman Jobe and Pap D. Jonga representing the nation in Heat 3 at Tollcross International Swimming Centre.While both swimmers fell short of advancing, the race marked another step forward for Gambian aquatics on the international stage.The duo competed in a fast men’s sprint heat. Tonga’s Alan Uhiafi touched first in 24.42 seconds, followed by Vanuatu’s John Lebot in 25.83.For The Gambia, Olympian Ousman Jobe placed 7th in Lane 6 with a time of 27.52 seconds. Pap D. Jonga finished 8th in Lane 2 in 28.30 seconds. Both were just off their seed times.Anticipation was high in the Gambian camp ahead of the race. Jobe came into Glasgow fresh off an intensive two-month training camp in Paris.“There’s been some major championships here before, in the 2014 Commonwealth Games as well. I’ve prepared so well,” Jobe said.“Plus, two months ago, I was in Paris preparing for this. So I think I’m fully ready.”While both missed out on personal bests, Jonga reflected on Glasgow’s world-class facilities and what it will take to develop talent in The Gambia.“If in The Gambia a supportive system can be created in terms of creating a swimming pool, swimming has a long way to go,” Jonga said.“Having at least a standard 25-meter pool will enable young kids who are trying to involve themselves in swimming to have big potential for tomorrow.”Though Heat 3 marks the end of this event, the Games are far from over for Team Gambia. Jonga said the race was a chance to review and improve.“The performance was great, but it could have been much better. I will use this moment to progress on the few events coming up... to do a review of what went wrong and enable me to have better timing in the races coming up,” he said.Jobe and Jonga return to the pool on Monday and Tuesday for the 100-meter freestyle and 50-meter butterfly, taking vital lessons from Glasgow’s 50-meter pool into their remaining races. 

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GINA BASS ADVANCES TO 100M SEMIS AS OUSMAN JOBE SETS NATIONAL RECORD AT COMMONWEALTH GAMES

It was a day of mixed fortunes for Team Gambia at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, as sprint star Gina Mariam Bass Bittaye booked her place in the women’s 100 metres semi-finals, while swimmer Ousman Jobe set a new Gambian national record.Africa’s sprint queen produced a confident performance to finish 2nd in her 100m heat in 11.22 seconds, comfortably securing a spot in the last 16.Speaking after the race, Bass said she was pleased with the result despite the cold weather.“Qualification was the priority in the opening round, not speed,” the Gambian star said.She remains quietly confident ahead of the semi-finals.The competition ended in the heats for the rest of Team Gambia’s sprinters.Commonwealth Games debutant Isatou Sey clocked 11.73 seconds, short of her personal best of 11.61. She blamed the weather but called the experience valuable.“Competing at the Games has been a great learning experience,” Sey said.Nyimansata Jawneh also bowed out after recording 11.68 seconds, leaving Bass as The Gambia’s sole representative in the women’s sprint semi-finals.In the men’s 100m, Alieu Joof ran 10.52 seconds while veteran Ebrima Camara clocked a season’s best of 10.29 seconds. Both narrowly missed out on qualification.Camara, competing at his third consecutive Commonwealth Games, reflected on a tough season.“I’m not really satisfied with it, but I thank God because I’ve had a very tough season with injuries,” Camara said.“Since recovering, every race I’ve been getting better. This is my third Commonwealth Games. Not everybody gets the opportunity to represent their country three times over twelve years. So I really thank God for that.”In the swimming pool, Pap D. Jonga and Ousman Jobe were unable to advance from the men’s 100m freestyle.However, Jobe made history by stopping the clock at 1:01.34, setting a new Gambian national record in the event. While the time was not enough to progress, it marked a major personal achievement and another step forward for competitive swimming in The Gambia.With athletics and swimming competitions now underway, all eyes turn to Gina Mariam Bass as she carries The Gambia’s hopes into the women’s 100m semi-finals, aiming to secure a place in the final and challenge for Commonwealth honours.

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PRESIDENT BARROW URGES YOUTH TO PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE AT 2026 INNOVATION SUMMIT

President Adama Barrow on Saturday urged young people to prepare for the future, telling hundreds of youth at the 2026 Youth Innovation Summit that “the future belongs to those who prepare for it.”The President was speaking at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, where several hundred young people from organisations across the country gathered for the annual summit.The Youth Innovation Summit brings young people together to discuss relevant issues, share ideas, and challenge the realities shaping youth affairs and the future of The Gambia.It serves as a platform for youth empowerment and fosters collaboration between young people and government.Key sponsor Comium said it believes youth are The Gambia’s greatest resource. “The country’s future depends on how we prepare young people to thrive in a digital-driven world,” said Isatou Ceesay, Comium’s Director of Marketing and Communications.A highlight of the summit was the story of Ebrima Jallow, a young man who once embarked on the perilous journey to Europe. Now a successful entrepreneur, Jallow was given the podium to inspire participants.He stands as living proof that Gambians can succeed at home.In his address, President Barrow recounted his own journey to Europe as a young man, with the belief that it was the only way to live a better life. He later realised that success could also be found at home.He used the lesson to encourage young people that with the right mindset, they can make it in The Gambia.The President assured youth that their development remains central to his government’s agenda, citing the construction of schools and TVET centres across the country to empower them.“It is government’s responsibility to ensure hope for our youth,” Barrow said. “That is why we are investing in agriculture and other sectors.”He urged young people to reject drugs, embrace innovation, and maintain peace, reiterating: “The future belongs to those who prepare for it.”Critical conversations at the summit centred on: Irregular migration and reintegration. Civic education, participation, and national cohesion. Youth empowerment, skills development, and entrepreneurship.Giving the vote of thanks on behalf of the Organising Committee, Maimuna Platt described the day as “an unforgettable day of learning among youths” and said it marks the beginning of more innovation and collaboration for nation building.

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PRESIDENT BARROW PRESENTS VEHICLES TO NPP-LED GRAND COALITION PARTNERS AHEAD OF DECEMBER POLL

President Adama Barrow on Saturday presented a fleet of vehicles to partner parties of the NPP-led Grand Coalition during a ceremony held at State House. The presentation was attended by leaders of the Alliance parties and senior members of the National People’s Party executive.Representatives of the Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction (APRC), ANRD, NRP, NCP, Democratic Party, Citizens Alliance, GPDP, and GMC received keys to the new vehicles. The vehicles are expected to enhance grassroots mobilisation ahead of the December 5th Presidential election.The leaders of the 8 parties expressed appreciation to the President and leader of the Grand Coalition, saying the gesture will strengthen the Alliance. They predicted a landslide victory for President Barrow, describing him as development-oriented and committed to national progress.Isatou Jifanga Jarju of the APRC assured that the vehicles will be used for their intended purpose.Mai Ahmad Fatty of the Gambia Moral Congress (GMC) said the Grand Coalition is strong and well-positioned to win the election, citing what he called the President’s “life-changing development projects” across the country.Dr Ismaila Ceesay of the Citizens Alliance urged beneficiaries to intensify grassroots mobilisation to strengthen the Grand Coalition. He said President Barrow will win with an overwhelming majority based on his track record over the last 9 years.GPDP leader Henry Gomez described the presentation as unprecedented in Gambian politics. “President Barrow respects his coalition partners and always supports them when necessary,” Gomez said. “Therefore, let us work together and speak with one voice to strengthen the Alliance.” He also called on Gambians to support the President and vote for him massively in December to ensure continuity of development.Leaders of the NCP, ANRD, and DP echoed similar sentiments, calling on all partner parties to vigorously campaign and mobilise support for the NPP-led Alliance.NRP leader Hamat N.K. Bah cautioned all beneficiary parties against misusing the vehicles, stressing that they are strictly for campaign purposes. He urged Alliance members to reach out to voters across the country.Bah also praised President Barrow’s development record, which he said has touched the lives of citizens nationwide. He challenged young people to support the President and avoid politicians who mislead them for selfish political goals.“There will be no shortcut to the Presidency,” Bah warned. “Government will not allow any individual or group to undermine the electoral process. A level playing field has already been ensured for all.”First Deputy National President of the NPP, Demba Sabally, said the presentation signifies President Barrow’s recognition of the important role of Alliance parties in strengthening the Grand Coalition. He urged them to redouble efforts and maintain unity to ensure victory for the Alliance.In his remarks, President Barrow described the event as a historic milestone in the country’s political evolution, noting it is the first time members of a coalition are receiving such support from the leading party.He called on all recipients to use the vehicles solely for political purposes to mobilise voters at the grassroots for the Grand Coalition. 

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